The festive spirit of Christmas is in full swing across Mumbai, with various celebrations lighting up different corners of the city, from Girgaum Chowpatty to the gaothans - the historic village settlements where Mumbai's earliest residents, predominantly farming families with their cattle, have lived for generations. These celebrations are blending centuries-old traditions with modern festivities.
In the latest addition to the city’s Christmas festivities, ‘Lights of Hope’, a spectacular celebration was inaugurated on 22 December 2024 at Bandra Reclamation by Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar. The event, which will continue until 5 January 2025, features dazzling light displays, shimmering trees, and vibrant décor that has transformed the Reclamation area into a festive wonderland.
The celebrations extend beyond Bandra Reclamation to Carter Road, Pali Village, and Chuim Village, bringing festive cheer to these historic neighbourhoods. At Carter Road, visitors can enjoy live street performances and installations between 6 PM and 10 PM daily.
Earlier this month, on December 8, Mumbai witnessed what is being called India’s largest Christmas gathering - the 59th annual Prabhu Yeshu Janmotsav at Girgaum Chowpatty. The event, which drew over 25,000 members of the Christian community, carried the timely message of “Spreading the Message of Peace, Harmony & Hope to a world in turmoil.”
The historic celebration, first initiated by then Lady Governor Tara Cherian, saw participation from prominent religious and civic leaders, including Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Justice K.K. Tated of the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission, and various other dignitaries. Dr. Abraham Mathai, Chairman of PYJ and former Vice-Chairman of the State Minorities Commission, highlighted the resilience of the Christian community and their contributions to healthcare, social work, and rural welfare in India.
The same day, Bandra’s Apostolic Carmel School ground hosted a vibrant Christmas Food & Flea Market organized by Glitz & Glam. The market showcased the neighbourhood’s famous festive spirit with live food counters, clothing and accessories stalls, Christmas decorations, homemade cakes, and gift items. The school also held its Annual Day celebrations titled ‘A Wonderful World’, featuring performances by students.
To manage the festive rush, authorities have recommended that visitors to popular shopping areas like Hill Road plan their trips during weekdays or afternoons to avoid weekend crowds. The Mumbai Police has planned elaborate security measures in parts of south Mumbai, including Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and Colaba, and issued special traffic advisories for the Bandra West area, anticipating heavy congestion during the celebration period.
“The festive spirit was truly alive,” said Minister Shelar, describing how families, friends and youngsters gathered “to revel in the captivating beauty of shimmering trees, dazzling lights and vibrant décor under the night sky.”
As Mumbai embraces the Christmas spirit, these diverse celebrations - from grand light displays at the Reclamation to intimate community gatherings - showcase the city’s unique ability to blend tradition with modernity while bringing together people of all faiths in celebration of the season.
